Tough Cell Vs. Others

The search for the most beneficial geotechnical engineering solution can lead to several geosynthetic options. Read on to discover what makes Tough Cell Neoloy based geocells the ideal reinforcement method available for a multitude of projects - in any weather condition - in any corner around the world.

Tough Cell’s 3D confinement structure triumphs 2D products, such as geotextiles and geogrids, and its stability provides long term assurances for a more durable construction method than most other conventional ground stabilization solution.

Tough Cell Vs. HDPE Geocells

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) geocells are suitable for use in low earth retention structures, soil erosion control and similar applications, but when searching for a base reinforcement solution - they lack sufficient durability.

Tough Cell made of Neoloy, on the other hand, is designed to be a superior polymeric alloy, meant for reinforcement and load support for all heavy-duty applications.

The basic confinement and structure concepts are similar in both HDPE and Neoloy based geocells, but the main factors that influence reinforcement capabilities were studied by researchers all over the world; findings point to Tough Cell as that with the clear advantage. See Published Research

Different materials were put to the test against various parameter testing, including full scale moving wheel tests, plate loading box tests and field demonstrations comparing the HDPE to the Neoloy geocells. The results have shown that performance is significantly better when the elastic modulus is higher- resulting in a significantly better long-term bearing capacity. All of these parameters make Tough Cell's Neoloy solution the best geocell choice for all engineering applications that require a long-term stabilization and reinforcement solution.

Criteria

Tough Cell Neoloy Geocells

HDPE Geocells

Tensile Strength

Higher elastic modulus and high tensile strength – up to 24 kN/m

Relatively low tensile strength

Creep resistance, deformation and dimensional stability

3-10 times higher creep resistance particularly at elevated temperatures. Reduced deformation of 2-5 times higher. Maintains dimensional stability in a much wider temperature range. 10 times more resistant to UV and oxidation wear & tear over time

Tough Cell Vs. Geogrids

Geogrid is a 2D geosynthetic product that requires high quality, angular, granular fill, such as gravel as a structural infill for road reinforcement. The difference in the geotechnical 2D structure in comparison to the Tough Cell 3D structure leads to various differences in layer thickness, required infill material and long-lasting durability.

The 3D structure of the Tough Cell diminishes soil movement, therefore creating a larger reinforced zone of influence (~40cm below and above height of the cell walls), providing reinforcement to the surrounding material. The non-cohesive fill achieves characteristics of higher quality fill due to 3D confinement interlocking. Geogrids require a specific angular aggregate with size limitations that are not necessary when using Tough Cell.

Another important difference concerns layer thickness. KOAC-NPC (Netherlands) conducted field trial demonstrations in which Tough Cell was the only geocell tested along with 7 other geogrids regarding thickness of structural pavements. The road base thickness reduction factor (CBR=1.5) for Tough Cell was 0.73 by CROW methodology. None of the geogrids tested have shown a better value. In addition, Tough Cell had the highest reduction factors.

Criteria

Tough Cell Neoloy Geocells

Geogrid

Resistance and Deformation

Highly elastic, 3D plane resistance leads to deformation only in very high parameters. Increased bending moment due to single layer depth resulting in better performance under concentrated loads.

Surface load is distributed evenly through the three-dimensional mattress beam, transitioning only up to 50% of the stress to the subgrade.

The load is distributed through a smaller area, causing points of concentrated stress, leading to malfunctions.

Soil

3D structure and confinement improves the soil characteristics, matching them to superior aggregate even when using non-cohesive grained soils.

Specific requirements such as high-quality aggregate and grain size are required to obtain stiffness and strength.

Tough Cell Vs. Chemical Stabilizers

Various chemical stabilizers such as cement, lime, calcium chloride, epoxy resin, among others, are used to stabilize soil and prepare it to withstand environmental changes and load challenges, providing a reinforced base for road and pavement construction. The challenge begins when there is a need for a long term solution that will not require large initial capital or frequent maintenance.

Chlorides are most common in soil stabilization, but have compelling downsides; while applying the material, a diluted result or one that is too concentrated will make this solution completely ineffective. Moreover, the corrosive damage to equipment along with a highly toxic damage to the environment make it a costly and rather unsafe solution. Further, the use of chemical stabilizers has a devastating impact on the environment.

Chemical mixtures that can have malfunctions undetectable to the naked eye

Life span

No mechanical deformities over a course of more than 75 years

60-80% loss of stiffness during life span

Water and Drainage Capabilities

Durable to water changes in soil content, simulates a confined drainage system

Very sensitive to water shifts. Becomes unstable under water content changes.

“Green”

Structural material with no deterioration, enables use of locally available soils as infill, no waste of precious aggregate

Toxic materials that can contaminate soil and water.

Cost Effective

Tough Cell Neoloy Geocells

Chemical Stabilizers

Tough Cell Vs. Geotextiles

Geotextiles are used across the spectrum in geotechnical engineering applications. In the past, they were mostly common for drainage applications, which subsequently led to the concept of utilizing them in soil separation and for partial reinforcement as well. Geotextiles allow water passage, all while keeping soil particles steady. This function assists in the life extension of pavement surfaces and roads.

Geotextiles 2D structure only provides limited vertical confinement translated to 1-2 times of the infill material average granular size. Tough Cell provides multi-directional confinement, which enlarges the influence zone to 50-200mm, above and below cell height. The differences in bearing capacities make it clear that Geotextiles may be utilized where advantages such as water and drainage capabilities are valued, but load support reinforcement is not an issue. Tough Cell covers it all.

Criteria

Tough Cell Neoloy Geocells

Geotextiles

Water and Drainage Capabilities

Durable to water changes in soil content, simulates a confined drainage system

Durable. Allows water flow while containing soil particles

Tensile Strength

Higher elastic modulus and high tensile strength – up to 24 kN/m

Relatively low tensile strength

Resistance and Deformation

Highly elastic, 3D plane resistance leads to deformation only in very high parameters.

Tough Cell Vs. Gabions

Gabions are a relatively good solution for different earth stabilization applications. The main issue when utilizing Gabions involves the construction complexity, visual footprint and detailed, time consuming logistics. The construction equipment needed for implementation includes heavy machinery, and the required rock material needs be a specific size and in relatively large quantities.

Although Tough Cell has similar earth stabilization characteristics for erosion control and slope protection, it is a more environmentally friendly solution as it supports a natural vegetation growth environment. It also has more layout options for better visual aesthetics and its installation is significantly simpler, saving time and overall capital.

Criteria

Tough Cell Neoloy Geocells

Gabions

Installation

Simple and quick, no heavy machinery needed. Can make use of local soils and non-cohesive fill

Requires cranes, time consuming, specific stone type and size

Visual Esthetics

Various design options with small environmental footprint. Supports natural restoration of vegetation growth

One option of vertical terraced stone, requires a very wide base. Only rock surface is possible

Maintenance

Long lasting geocells with very little maintenance required during life span

Regular maintenance required

Tough Cell Vs. Access Mats

Access mats are adequate for smaller areas or used as a short term solution in a variety of industries. They require specific material, have complex logistics and installationand are usually cost-effective for short term only. With this in mind, the Tough Cell Neoloy Geocells are far more suitable for stabilization, especially for access roads constructed on top of soft subgrades. Tough Cells have better bearing capacity and can support heavier loads. This make it the clear choice for heavy haul road construction.

By making use of local soils, the installation process becomes easier, transportation issues to far away sites are solved and less costly. Moreover, the life span of Tough Cell reinforced roads is significantly longer. For example, the amount of folded Neoloy Geocells in a 40' container, is enough to construct a 3.75km x 4m road.

Criteria

Tough Cell Neoloy Geocells

Access Mats

Transportation and Installation

Low transportation costs due to Tough Cell sections foldable structure. Can use non-cohesive local soils as infill Simple and quick installation

High transportation costs. Requires heavier machinery

Life Span

Product performance warranted for more than 75 years

Short term solution

“Green”

Non-degradable polymers, do not dissolve or contaminate surrounding soil and waters

Degradable material, cannot withstand harsh weather conditions for a long term, can decay and contaminate its surroundings

Soil

3D structure and confinement improves the soil characteristics, matching them to superior aggregate even when using non-cohesive grained soils.

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